The presence of Shell on this site, early on in World War II made for the highest flames and largest clouds of smoke in Amsterdam’s history. Shortly after the first German attack on 10 May 1940, the English decided to lit the oil supply. Their warships docked off the quay of the IJ. The oil tanks were the first to go.

Research up in flames

Thanks to a northeast wind, Shell’s lab was spared from the blaze. However, Shell employees did throw important research reports into the flames. These contained strategic knowledge that could have benefited the Germans. Just in time too, because the Germans did not wait for the fire to die out to start searching the buildings. Black clouds of smoke were seen far beyond Amsterdam and the city was covered in darkness. A grey haze and smell of burning lingered for days.